TTD Alipiri Token Timings: Divya Darshan Guide for Pedestrian Pilgrims
The journey from Alipiri, the base of Tirumala Hills, is a sacred pilgrimage by foot for millions of devotees. TTD issues special Divya Darshan tokens to pilgrims who complete this trek. These tokens provide a specific slot for a shorter queue line inside the temple, making the arduous walk incredibly rewarding.
This guide provides the official Alipiri token timings, eligibility, and everything you need to know about completing the walk and receiving your Divya Darshan slot.
Where and When to Receive Alipiri Tokens?
The Divya Darshan tokens are issued at designated counters along the Alipiri footpath, usually near the beginning of the trek.
Alipiri Token Timings Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Token Distribution Time | 24 Hours (Tokens are continuously distributed as pilgrims pass the checkpoint) |
| Eligibility | Only pilgrims walking the entire Alipiri footpath (from the entry arch to the checkpoint) |
| Location | Designated check point (typically at Galigopuram, about 2 km into the trek, or a new location near the initial steps). |
| Requirement | Biometric scan (fingerprint) of the hand used for holding the darshan ticket. |
| Token Type | Biometric token for Divya Darshan (shorter queue line inside the temple). |
Important Note for Divya Darshan Tokens: The Alipiri footpath is open daily from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and tokens are issued at the Bhudevi Complex on a first-come, first-served basis. Since tokens are limited, and you must scan them at the 1200th step, you should plan to arrive at the complex very early to secure your spot before your trek.
The Divya Darshan Token Process
The journey to obtaining the token involves two crucial steps:
Step 1: Biometric Enrollment (At Alipiri)
As you begin the Alipiri footpath, you will encounter the first checkpoint. Here, TTD staff will enroll your biometric data (fingerprint) and provide you with a printed token slip indicating that your journey has officially begun. You must keep this printed token safely.
Step 2: Token Activation and Slot Allotment (At Tirumala)
Upon reaching Tirumala at the end of the trek, you will pass through a final checkpoint. Here, you will:
- Surrender your initial token slip.
- Verify your identity using the same biometric scan (fingerprint).
- Receive the final Divya Darshan token. This token will contain your specific darshan time slot and entry gate number for the queue complex.
Crucial Point: If you lose your initial token slip, or if the biometric data does not match the person presenting the token at the top of the hill, the Divya Darshan benefit will be revoked.
Eligibility and Rules for Divya Darshan
To ensure the benefit goes only to those who completed the full pilgrimage on foot, TTD enforces strict rules:
- Age Limit: The Divya Darshan token is generally issued to pilgrims of all ages, provided they complete the walk.
- Token Validity: The token is typically valid for the day of issue and the following day. It is highly recommended to complete your darshan on the same day if possible, or the next morning.
- Footpath Duration: The Alipiri path takes an average of 3 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and breaks. Plan your start time accordingly to reach Tirumala before nightfall, although the path is well-lit 24/7.
Where to Stay Before the Walk?
Many pilgrims choose to spend a night in Tirupati town to rest before starting the Alipiri trek early in the morning. Staying close to the starting point or the train/bus station is recommended for maximum convenience.
- Accommodation Near Alipiri: TTD’s premier accommodation complex, Vishnu Nivasam, is an ideal choice, as it is located near the Tirupati Railway Station and offers excellent TTD-managed rooms. It provides easy access to the TTD free bus service that runs to the Alipiri arch.
- TTD Free Buses: TTD runs frequent free bus services from the Railway Station (near Vishnu Nivasam and Madhavam Guest House) directly to the Alipiri entry gate.
By understanding the token system and preparing your overnight stay, you ensure a smooth and sacred start to your Divya Darshan pilgrimage.